Bill > HB1482

This bill aims to improve health coverage equity for immigrants in Washington state by establishing comprehensive health insurance programs and support mechanisms. The legislation recognizes that over 1,000,000 immigrants in Washington are often structurally excluded from social safety net programs and have significantly higher uninsured rates compared to U.S. citizens. The bill creates an Apple Health expansion program that will provide health coverage to individuals aged 19 and older who have incomes at or below 138% of the federal poverty level but are ineligible for federal assistance due to immigration status. The program will offer health coverage equivalent to categorically needy medical assistance and establishes a community accountability committee to monitor program performance. Additionally, the bill requires the Washington Health Benefit Exchange to create a culturally diverse and linguistically appropriate outreach campaign to support immigrant health coverage, with direct funding to community-based organizations. The legislation also mandates exploring federal waivers to increase funding and improve health insurance access for immigrants, with a goal of reaching parity in insurance coverage rates between immigrants and citizens by January 1, 2028. The bill represents a significant effort to address healthcare disparities and provide comprehensive health coverage regardless of immigration status.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1482&Year=2025&Initiative=false